The latest mpox outbreak in Africa has been declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the WHO. It is important to note that mpox is an STD which is primarily transmitted via sexual contact.
This latest outbreak is concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo in central Africa. As at 28 August 2024, there are no current cases of clade Ib mpox in Uganda, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, or Kenya at the moment. Kenya had one case of clade Ib which has been treated, and there are no other active cases. South Africa had 24 cases of clade II mpox (the 2022 strain), all of them among gay or bisexual men.
The risk in Africa’s safari and tourism destinations to the general traveller is virtually zero, and there is absolutely no reason to cancel, postpone, or reconsider your travel plans. It is perfectly safe to go on a safari to Africa.
Where is the Current MPox Outbreak?
The current mpox outbreak, caused by a clade Ib variant of MPXV, is primarily concentrated in the western Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and does not pose a widespread risk across Africa. While there are isolated cases in other countries, popular tourist destinations like South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, and Tanzania have no active outbreaks. In fact, Kenya has had only one case, already treated, while South Africa and Tanzania have had no cases of the clade 1b variant. The risk for tourists in Southern and East Africa, particularly in safari destinations, is virtually zero and comparable to the risk in their home countries. There is no need to cancel or postpone travel plans to these regions.
The risk for a tourist in popular safari destinations like Southern Africa and East Africa is virtually zero, and no different to the risk you face in your own home country.
How Does MPox Spread?
Mpox is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) primarily spread through intimate sexual contact, not airborne transmission. While it can be transmitted to healthcare workers or close family members through prolonged personal contact, sexual intercourse remains the primary mode of transmission. A position paper from Oxford Academic and the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm that the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is driven by sexual transmission and close physical contact. A 2022 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that over 98% of cases were linked to unprotected sexual intercourse between men. Although some media outlets avoid highlighting this for fear of discrimination, it is essential to mention that those most at risk include prostitutes, their clients, and men who have sex with men. This helps target public health efforts and informs at-risk groups, as well as providing perspective for those who do not engage in high-risk behavior. For the average tourist visiting Africa, the risk of contracting mpox during a flight, at the airport, or on a safari is minimal, especially when following basic hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing.
Is It Safe to Travel to Africa During the Current MPox Outbreak?
Yes, it is safe! There is absolutely no need to be concerned or to alter your travel plans. Most safari destinations and tourist regions are not affected by this outbreak, and the risk of infection is virtually zero for the average traveler. Naturally, we continue to follow WHO guidelines and our best-practice health and safety protocols on every safari are designed to ensure the well-being of every traveler, so you can travel with confidence.
Conclusion
There is no need for travelers to be concerned about the current mpox outbreak in Africa. While the outbreak is focused in the Democratic Republic of Congo, it does not pose a widespread risk to other countries, particularly popular safari and tourist destinations. The risk for tourists in regions like Southern and East Africa is virtually zero, and there are no active cases in countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania. Mpox is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, and the risk of contracting it during a safari or travel in these areas is minimal. Travelers can feel confident in proceeding with their plans, as long as they follow basic hygiene practices. It’s safe to enjoy a safari or visit other tourist attractions in Africa without concern for mpox.
